Instead of attending the Oscars, American actor Sean Penn was in Ukraine, where he received a symbolic award. The unique statue was given as a gesture of gratitude for his support of the country during the war.
American actor Sean Penn decided to skip this year's Academy Awards. Instead, he opted for a private trip to Ukraine, where he received an unusual award, the so-called “Ukrainian Oscar”.
This symbolic item was crafted from the metal of a railway car damaged during a Russian attack, as reported by TARS.
The Ukrainian railway company Ukrzaliznytsia presented this award to thank him for his long-standing support of Ukraine and its people. The actor personally accepted the award and called it a “treasure”.
Penn is among the well-known figures actively supporting Ukraine since the war began. Back in 2022, he donated one of his Oscars to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky as a symbol of solidarity, stating that the statue would remain in the country until its victory.
Penn frequently returns to Ukraine. In 2023, he contributed to a documentary about Zelensky that explores his transformation from comedian to wartime leader following the Russian invasion. Their collaboration has grown into a personal friendship.
Despite being set to receive another Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for "One Battle at a Time" during the gala in Los Angeles, he chose to stay in Ukraine. With this gesture, he once again highlighted his support for the country facing Russian aggression.
